Precision Imaging and Image-Guided Therapies in Male Breast Cancer Care

By: Robert L. Bard, MD / Edited by: Lennard M. Goetze, Ed.D & Roberta Kline, MD

Introduction:
Male breast cancer remains one of the most under-recognized and under-diagnosed cancers, often dismissed due to societal bias or lack of awareness. However, advancements in imaging technologies are revolutionizing early detection, staging, and treatment monitoring. At the forefront of this transformation is the integration of high-resolution ultrasound and Doppler-based vascular imaging—a non-invasive, real-time solution offering critical insight into tumor biology, particularly in high-risk male populations such as first responders and those exposed to occupational toxins.

Rethinking Male Breast Diagnostics
While mammography remains a conventional screening tool, it is rarely used in men unless they present with symptoms such as breast enlargement, nipple discharge, or palpable masses—particularly in those with a BRCA gene mutation. More often, practitioners now rely on ultrasound as the primary imaging modality for male breast evaluation. This includes the use of advanced Doppler to assess vascular activity, which can help distinguish benign growths from malignancies.

Common benign findings such as gynecomastia—especially in adolescent and young adult males—are readily identified with ultrasound. Fatty tumors like lipomas also appear clearly using this modality. However, the diagnostic power of ultrasound becomes critical when suspicious symptoms present, such as subareolar masses, nipple retraction, or bloody discharge. In such cases, ultrasound can quickly detect the presence, size, and structure of the tumor and guide further intervention.

The Role of Vascular Imaging
Color Doppler ultrasound enhances the ability to characterize lesions by mapping their blood flow. Malignant tumors often display increased vascularity, with irregular, tortuous vessels visible within or around the lesion. This vascular signature, known as neovascularity, has been recognized since the 1990s as a biomarker for tumor aggression.

In clinical practice, once a suspicious lesion is visualized, additional imaging such as MRI or PET-CT may be employed. However, Doppler ultrasound allows for immediate evaluation without radiation exposure. Notably, it enables the patient to point to areas of pain or concern, allowing for focused and accurate real-time scanning.

Tumor Behavior and Imaging Insights
Not all tumors behave predictably. Some papillary carcinomas can degenerate into cystic masses. Others may swell during treatment due to inflammation, edema, or immune system response—even as they are responding to therapy. Understanding these patterns is vital to avoid misinterpreting progression when, in fact, healing is occurring.

When used longitudinally, Doppler ultrasound enables clinicians to monitor the regression of tumor vasculature during treatment. This provides a quantitative assessment—measuring tumor vessel density in percentages—that can guide whether therapy is effective or needs to be adjusted. For instance, a patient may present with a vascular index of 4.5% pre-treatment, which may drop to 1% after several months of targeted therapy. This objective measurement offers far more accuracy than visual inspection or palpation alone.

Minimally Invasive Treatment Monitoring
Several non-surgical treatment options rely heavily on imaging guidance for planning and efficacy evaluation. Technologies such as High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), cryoablation, and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) use heat or cold to destroy tumor tissue. In these cases, vascular imaging confirms the procedure’s success by showing an immediate absence of tumor blood flow.

Other slower-acting treatments—such as antioxidants, hormone therapy, or radiation—may take weeks or months to show regression. In such instances, continued ultrasound surveillance is critical. Blood flow patterns are monitored over time to determine whether the lesion is resolving, stabilizing, or growing.

Beyond Tumor Detection: Identifying Complications
Ultrasound's versatility extends beyond cancer detection. Post-surgical complications such as lymphoceles, infections, or scar tissue entrapment can also be identified. Chronic pain after breast surgery in men is often due to nerve entrapment within scar tissue—a diagnosis more readily made through high-resolution ultrasound than MRI. Similarly, benign findings such as calcified scars or foreign bodies (e.g., splinters or surgical remnants) may mimic malignancy but can be quickly differentiated with imaging.

Lymphomas and other rare cancers may also appear in the male breast or axillary region. These can be identified with the same sonographic techniques, providing a complete diagnostic pathway from primary evaluation to follow-up and surveillance.

Avoiding Risky Interventions
A key benefit of blood flow-guided imaging is the ability to target biopsies more precisely. By identifying areas of active tumor vascularity, clinicians can avoid sampling necrotic or non-diagnostic tissue. This not only improves diagnostic yield but also reduces the risk of complications. In one example, a soft, movable lump was initially presumed to be a benign fatty tumor. However, Doppler imaging revealed a rich vascular supply and proximity to the aorta—making blind biopsy potentially dangerous and underscoring the life-saving utility of vascular guidance.

Conclusion: Transforming the Paradigm of Male Breast Cancer
Modern ultrasound technologies, particularly when paired with vascular flow analytics, have elevated male breast cancer diagnostics from a reactive, often delayed process to one that is fast, precise, and patient-centered. From detecting suspicious lumps to guiding therapies and tracking progress, these tools empower clinicians with real-time data to personalize care and avoid unnecessary procedures.

In a population that has long been underrepresented in breast cancer screening campaigns, the integration of advanced imaging offers not only a new level of clinical insight but also a renewed hope for earlier detection and better outcomes. As the field continues to evolve, image-guided care may well become the gold standard for managing male breast cancer and its many clinical challenges.

 

Uncovering The "Man Boob" Myth & Thyroid Link

The Thyroid Connection to Gynecomastia and Hidden Hormonal Disorders

Introduction

Gynecomastia — often colloquially referred to as "man boobs" — is more than a cosmetic concern or a punchline in pop culture. For many men, it may signal the first visible sign of an underlying endocrine imbalance, particularly involving the thyroid. Although thyroid disorders are stereotypically considered a "woman’s issue," emerging evidence reveals that autoimmune thyroiditis and other glandular anomalies are increasingly detected in men — especially those in midlife. And while lab tests and routine sonography often miss early signs of disease, advanced imaging technologies now provide a window into otherwise undetectable abnormalities. In this article, we explore a compelling case, the diagnostic innovation it reveals, and the link between male breast tissue growth, thyroid dysfunction, and the broader implications of inflammatory and autoimmune disorders.

Case in Point: The Hidden Signs Behind a Midlife Male

A 50-year-old male, with a history of high cholesterol and slightly elevated blood pressure, presented for cardiovascular screening. His lab work was mostly unremarkable. As part of his risk assessment, medical-grade thermography was used — a non-invasive tool capable of detecting regional blood flow, inflammation, and organ-specific thermal patterns.

While his brain perfusion appeared normal, the thyroid gland showed reduced thermal activity — a subtle signal often dismissed in traditional workups. Follow-up thyroid sonography revealed no overt tumor, but an atypical texture pattern prompted further evaluation using microvascular Doppler ultrasound and elastography. These advanced modalities detected a heterogeneous echo pattern and localized vascular irregularities — findings suggestive of early Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, despite the absence of symptoms and normal thyroid hormone levels in bloodwork.

Further probing into the patient’s family history revealed that his mother and sister had autoimmune thyroid disease — a genetic predisposition often overlooked in men. While Hashimoto’s is far more prevalent in women (by a 10:1 ratio), it is not absent in men, and its underdiagnosis may be partially due to gender bias in clinical screening.

Unexpected Outcome: From Thyroid Imaging to Male Breast Screening

Because of the patient’s lipid medication and visible breast fullness around the nipple (a classic presentation of gynecomastia), a breast sonogram was conducted. This scan revealed benign cystic formations — commonly missed or misattributed in male patients — and spared him the discomfort and inaccuracy of a mammogram, which is often ill-suited for male anatomy.

What this case underscored was a domino effect: Subtle thyroid changes, detected through advanced noninvasive tools, led to an expanded view of hormonal influence across multiple body systems — including breast tissue changes that are rarely evaluated in men until much later.

 

The Thyroid–Gynecomastia Connection: What Science Says

Thyroid disorders can contribute to gynecomastia through multiple pathways:

1.     Hyperthyroidism raises levels of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), which binds and lowers free testosterone, while estrogen remains relatively unbound — tipping the balance in favor of estrogenic activity, even when absolute estrogen levels are normal.

2.     Hypothyroidism, on the other hand, reduces metabolic clearance of estrogens, promotes weight gain, and increases aromatase activity in adipose tissue — leading to peripheral testosterone-to-estrogen conversion.

3.     Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, the most common autoimmune thyroid disease, causes chronic inflammation and destruction of the thyroid gland. While often “silent” in early stages, it can alter hormonal regulation, leading to gynecomastia, fatigue, mood disorders, and metabolic shifts — often dismissed in male patients as lifestyle-related.

Studies confirm this connection: One endocrine review found that up to 40% of men with hyperthyroidism developed some form of gynecomastia, and resolution often followed successful thyroid treatment¹.

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Beyond the Breast: Imaging as a Gateway to Systemic Insight

The use of microvascular ultrasound, thermal imaging, and real-time Doppler flow analysis presents an evolution in early detection. Unlike traditional diagnostics that rely solely on serum labs, these tools visualize live blood flow, tissue stiffness, and inflammatory markers — ideal for detecting disorders like:

·        Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

·        Early testicular cancer

·        Subclinical cardiovascular disease

·        Psoriasis and autoimmune arthritis

·        Chronic inflammatory diseases such as lupus, Lyme disease, and endometriosis

When paired with epigenetic analysis, clinicians can now evaluate inherited risk factors and inflammatory predisposition before symptoms fully develop.

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Non-Surgical Innovations in Hormonal and Inflammatory Conditions

Emerging bioenergetic therapies are complementing this diagnostic progress. Technologies such as:

·        Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

·        Near Infrared Therapy (NIR)

·        Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields (PEMF)

…are being used to modulate inflammation, support immune regulation, and optimize glandular function — without the side effects of systemic medications or invasive procedures. These interventions are particularly promising in cases of:

·        Hormone-triggered acne

·        Chronic ulcers

·        Autoimmune arthritis

·        Hormonal gynecomastia

This represents a paradigm shift in how hormonal disorders, including male breast tissue changes, are both detected and treated.

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Public Awareness and Gender Bias: Why Men Get Left Behind

The historical view that thyroid problems are exclusive to women — or that breast concerns are inherently female — is a major barrier to early male diagnosis. Many men with gynecomastia delay seeking care due to embarrassment or misinformation, and most primary care guidelines do not include routine endocrine screening for men with midlife breast changes.

Similarly, autoimmune thyroiditis in men is grossly underdiagnosed due to reliance on blood tests that may not show abnormality until late in the disease process. Greater public education, clinician training, and accessibility to noninvasive imaging could close this gap and prevent misdiagnosis or delay in treatment.

Endocrine Screening Before Surgical Intervention

Dr. Angela Mazza, a triple board-certified endocrinologist and expert in thyroid and hormone-related disorders, emphasizes an often-overlooked element in the diagnostic process: “In evaluating gynecomastia, it's essential not only to explore thyroid dysfunction but also to rule out elevated prolactin levels,” she notes. Hyperprolactinemia, which can result from pituitary tumors or medication side effects, is a known endocrine cause of male breast enlargement and should be assessed as part of a comprehensive hormonal panel. Dr. Mazza advocates for a holistic endocrine workup that includes thyroid function, sex hormone balance, and pituitary health to avoid superficial or incomplete diagnoses.

She further highlights a concerning trend in clinical referrals: “I frequently receive consultations from plastic surgeons requesting endocrine clearance before patients undergo surgery for gynecomastia. Interestingly, these evaluations are often initiated by the surgeon — not the patient.” This pattern suggests that many men may remain unaware of the underlying medical significance of their condition, viewing it as a cosmetic issue rather than a possible symptom of systemic dysfunction. Dr. Mazza stresses the importance of education and early endocrine assessment, stating that identifying and treating the root cause can often prevent unnecessary surgery and uncover other health risks in the process.

 

According to Dr. Angela Mazza, early detection of thyroid dysfunction is critical in understanding the broader endocrine mechanisms behind male gynecomastia. “Thyroid disorders often present subtly in men, and conventional labs may not pick up early inflammatory changes,” she explains. “This is where thermographic imaging becomes especially valuable.”

Medical-grade thermography, a noninvasive and radiation-free tool, detects temperature variations across the body’s surface, helping to identify regions of vascular or metabolic disturbance long before structural abnormalities appear on ultrasound or blood panels. “In cases of autoimmune thyroiditis like Hashimoto’s, thermography can reveal reduced or asymmetric thermal activity over the thyroid bed, prompting further evaluation,” Dr. Mazza adds.

She emphasizes that integrating thermographic patterns with Doppler ultrasound and functional hormone testing creates a more comprehensive picture of glandular health. “Thermology is especially useful in evaluating subclinical thyroid dysfunction and guiding targeted endocrine workups, particularly when early intervention could prevent long-term complications — including hormonal imbalances that contribute to male breast tissue proliferation.”

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Conclusion: Rethinking Male Breast Changes Through a Thyroid Lens

Gynecomastia may seem like a superficial issue, but it can be a red flag for deeper systemic dysfunction — including thyroid irregularities, inflammatory disorders, and metabolic imbalances. As this case illustrates, advanced imaging technologies can reveal glandular and vascular anomalies long before traditional tests raise concern. By combining real-time diagnostics with awareness of male-specific endocrine vulnerabilities, clinicians can identify conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, cardiovascular inflammation, and even precancerous changes much earlier.

Ultimately, recognizing the link between "man boobs" and thyroid dysfunction empowers both patients and practitioners to ask better questions, seek smarter diagnostics, and pursue more effective, integrative treatments.

 

OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURES - EXPOSED!

Did Your Job Cause Your Cancer? Have you ever been asked what type of work you were doing when you received your cancer diagnosis? Most people would say no to this question.  We know that oftentimes exposure to toxins on the job is one of the major causes of cancers.  As we prepare our next newsletter, we would like your input. Tell us what job you had in your lifetime that may have been a contributing factor.   (email us at: support@mbcga.org )

2ND GENERATION CANCER FROM A TOXIC JOB

"Since I was 18, I followed in my father’s footsteps—married young, raised a family, and worked hard to provide. Like him, I took a job in road construction, surviving off a single paycheck. I got used to the smell of burning asphalt, even when drivers rolled up their windows complaining of headaches.  Also like my father, I kept my health issues to myself. He believed that a job was a gift—and complaining could cost you everything. So I stayed silent through skin cancer, breast cancer, and eventually prostate cancer.

My dad passed away in his 50s. By then, I had access to the internet, and what I learned opened my eyes. The toxins we were exposed to on the job were no secret. It wasn’t bad luck. It was our environment. Our silence. Our sacrifice. It took losing him—and getting sick myself—to realize I had become a statistic. The very job that helped me feed my family was slowly killing me. 

Today, I drive a metro bus through downtown Chicago. I still provide, but with a deeper awareness. My father taught me how to work hard. Cancer taught me to speak up."

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DETECTION OF JOB RELATED CANCERS & CHRONIC DISEASES

When it comes to toxic exposures, health hazards exist in lesser or greater quantity - especially in the more dangerous jobs (ie. firefighting, construction, engine work etc). For the many Americans who dedicated an extended period of their careers to potentially toxic exposures, this comprehensive clinical testing program offers direct insight into their genetic predispositions for potentially adverse responses to occupational exposures.  The selected testing also identifies predisposition to common cancers, chronic diseases, and other health issues.  

MBCSCAN is a comprehensive screening and diagnostic program designed to provide insight into  adverse responses to occupational exposures, common cancers, chronic diseases, and other health issues. This genetic blueprint provides the foundation of a personalized approach to minimizing exposure risks and optimizing health. Additional assessments with epigenetics and functional labs can provide real-time data into how this genetic blueprint is interacting with past and current lifestyle choices and occupational exposures to impact biological function and enable fine-tuning of personalized strategies.  

This advanced occupational testing program signifies a transformative shift toward precision occupational medicine—integrating genetic, epigenetic, and toxin exposure insights to offer personalized risk management. The ability to stratify risk based on a person’s unique genetic blueprint and cumulative exposure burden empowers both workers and employers to make informed decisions about job assignments, protective measures, detoxification support, and early intervention protocols.

"Toxins are unavoidable, but for people who are exposed to very high amounts day in and day out to the most powerful toxins, they are beyond dangerous.  These toxins are the tipping point for chronic disease, including cancer.  I applaud the cause to better protect those at highest risk."  - Dr. Angela Mazza (FL) 

"This message strikes a vital balance between advocacy and clinical awareness—one that is deeply needed in conversations around occupational exposures and cancer risk.  Recognizing job-related poisons will resonate with many and spark important reflection... perhaps encouraging readers to not only share their job history but also any known exposures or symptoms they may have dismissed at the time could further deepen the dialogue and enhance data collection for future outreach and research." - Dr. Leslie Valle-Montoya (CA)

"You are raising important awareness about the serious health risks linked to occupational exposure to toxic substances—risks that have affected many men over the years and are associated with chronic illnesses, including cancer. By highlighting the MBCScan, a comprehensive screening and diagnostic program that helps identify these exposures and assess potential health risks, you are providing workers with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their well-being. You deserve praise for such excellent work." - Roberta Morris (NY)

For more information or to book an appointment, visit www.MBCScan.com or call 516.522.0777

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Beyond the Paycheck: Confronting Cancer Risks in the American Workforce

Written by: Lennard M. Goetze, Ed.D / Daria Petaludis, PhD

Source: 2025 Workers' Chemical Exposure Risk Analysis - F.A.C.E.S. USA

For decades, job-based health hazards have remained an underrecognized threat to millions of workers—long after the shift whistle blows. In high-risk occupations like construction, firefighting, manufacturing, and oil refining, exposure to carcinogens, toxic fumes, radiation, and hazardous materials is part of the daily routine. The result? A disproportionate rate of chronic illnesses, including multiple forms of cancer.

While industries once focused primarily on lawsuit prevention and liability shielding, there's a growing—albeit slow—movement toward risk reduction and long-term health protection. For example, in firefighting, mounting evidence linking occupational exposure to increased cancer risk has driven departments to adopt advanced decontamination protocols, issue protective gear rated for chemical defense, and conduct regular health screenings. Similarly, the construction sector is seeing greater enforcement of OSHA silica standards and asbestos abatement programs.

Still, far too many industries lag behind. Agricultural workers, mechanics, miners, and chemical plant employees continue to face daily exposure to substances like benzene, diesel exhaust, formaldehyde, and PFAS with insufficient protective oversight. Many workers only discover the long-term effects—such as lung, bladder, or prostate cancer—after years on the job, often when it's too late for early intervention.

Prevention, not litigation, must be the standard. Stronger legislation, stricter enforcement, and routine screening programs can redefine workplace safety and reduce the devastating health aftermath facing today’s workforce.

“Occupational exposure to industrial toxins can quietly disrupt hormonal pathways, often going undetected for years. I rely on advanced endocrine testing to identify patterns of dysfunction—such as thyroid abnormalities or hormone-sensitive tumors—that are frequently linked to chemical exposure in high-risk work environments.” — Dr. Angela Mazza, Endocrinologist

When Lawsuits Made History: Exposing Job-Based Hazards Through Class Action

While prevention is the future, it was litigation that often cracked open the past. Some of the most notorious occupational health hazards only came to public light through large-scale class action lawsuits that exposed corporate negligence and institutional disregard for worker safety.

One of the most high-profile examples is the asbestos litigation crisis, beginning in the 1970s. Thousands of shipyard workers, construction laborers, and insulation installers filed lawsuits against manufacturers like Johns-Manville, claiming the companies knowingly exposed them to asbestos—a carcinogen linked to mesothelioma and lung cancer—without proper warning or protection. This led to one of the longest and most expensive mass torts in U.S. history, resulting in billions in settlements and widespread regulatory reform.

Another landmark case emerged from the W.R. Grace & Co. vermiculite mine in Libby, Montana, where workers and residents were exposed to asbestos-laced dust for decades. The EPA eventually designated Libby a Superfund site, and numerous lawsuits revealed the extent to which corporate and governmental oversight had failed.

More recently, firefighters and first responders involved in the 9/11 World Trade Center cleanup filed suits due to exposure to a toxic cocktail of debris and carcinogens. The 2011 Zadroga Act offered compensation and medical coverage, highlighting how advocacy, data, and legal action can converge to deliver justice. These lawsuits have shaped workplace health policy—but they often come only after irreversible harm. Their legacy underscores why proactive prevention must now take the lead.

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AFTERTHOUGHT
By: Dr. Robert Bard, Cancer Imaging Specialist

"In the realm of occupational health, waiting until symptoms appear is no longer acceptable—especially in high-risk professions. Lawsuit prevention begins with prevention itself. Over the years, I’ve seen too many workers diagnosed late with conditions that could have been flagged early through basic imaging or lab testing. As industries face mounting legal and financial pressure from exposure-related illness claims, the smartest path forward is proactive intervention.

Implementing on-site diagnostic screening and mid-job health evaluations is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessary layer of protection for both the worker and the employer. Programs like 'Get Checked Now!'  and Fight Recurrence brings point-of-care technologies like field ultrasound and other non-invasive tools directly to the worksite, offering real-time insight into cardiovascular strain, organ dysfunction, early tumor detection, and toxic burden markers. These are not just medical tools; they’re shields against tragedy and litigation.

By making health surveillance a normalized, recurring part of hazardous work environments, companies can reduce liability, build trust with their workforce, and most importantly—save lives. Medicine today gives us the ability to act before a silent disease becomes a courtroom battle. Let’s use it.”

— Dr. Robert L. Bard, MD, DABR, FASLMS
Founder, Bard Cancer Diagnostics | Diagnostic Imaging Specialist

References:

(1) Daniels, R.D. et al. (2014). Mortality and cancer incidence in a pooled cohort of US firefighters from San Francisco, Chicago and Philadelphia (1950–2009). Occupational and Environmental Medicine. (2) OSHA. (2023). Occupational Cancer – U.S. Department of Labor. (3) IARC. (2012). Monographs on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans. World Health Organization. (4) National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). (2022). Cancer among workers in high-risk industries. (5) American Cancer Society. (2024). Workplace Exposure and Cancer Risk. (6) Castleman, B. I. (1996). Asbestos: Medical and legal aspects (4th ed.). Aspen Law & Business. (7) United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (2023). Libby Asbestos Site. https://www.epa.gov/superfund/libby (8) Provides documentation and updates on the W.R. Grace vermiculite mine and environmental/legal actions taken. (9) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2022). World Trade Center Health Program: About the Program. https://www.cdc.gov/wtc/about.html

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MORE OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE STORIES

"For me the question you asked is simple. I was in the Air Force during the Vietnam war as an Air Freight Specialist. Most of my job was loading and unloading cargo from planes touching just about everything that came in and out of Vietnam, which included toxic chemicals such as agent orange.  When I was diagnosed with breast cancer in both breasts my oncologist was puzzled and wondered why since I had a complete genetics testing done that found no reason for me to have cancer. When the PACT act was introduced by President Biden I submitted documentation and the government agreed that more than likely the cancer I had was due to exposure from agent orange and gave me disability compensation." - Ray

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"I was BRCA 1 & 2 negative. I was also negative for all of the mutations tested later.  I just drew the short straw.  I worked at the telephone company at many different central offices.  Some of the central offices had asbestos remediation going on.  I didn't spend more than a few hours each for maintenance of telephone lines and circuits, but who knows if it was environmental exposure or not.  I was never able to identify a clear environmental link. I did live near a cancer cluster that blamed the water supply. I was told that many years before the company discharged chemicals, the river would be any number of different colors on any given day... " - Bob 

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"I have always felt that my job as a helicopter mechanic while I was in the military may have been a contributing factor. I was certainly exposed to quite a few chemicals back in the day. Hope the info helps."  - Phillip

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"We are 99.999% certain my cancer was caused by my work on Nuclear submarines. I am quite sure I can pinpoint when and where. An officer demanded |I do an emergency entry into the reactor chamber for an exercise. Exposure to radiation for exercise purposes is against international law. I was not only exposed to high energy Beta gamma radiation but probably slow neutrons too... yeah that will cause cancer.! A full genetic study came up clean. No genetic cause found nor is there any history of any cancers in either side of my family. Way back in the 1990's there was a newspaper report that in America there was a 46% increase of cancer in nuclear submariners. That was across the board, all trades. I worked with radiation daily on  when on patrol." -- Alan

TEAM UPGRADE SHAPES 2025 MBC CRUSADE BLUEPRINT

MBCGA Welcomes Dr. Angela Mazza to Lead Holistic Health Initiative in 2025 Medical Advisory Board Expansion

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 23, 2025

New York, NY — The Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance (MBCGA) proudly announces the induction of Dr. Angela Mazza, a triple board-certified endocrinologist and nationally recognized voice in preventive medicine, to its 2025 Medical Advisory Board. Dr. Mazza joins as the Lead Educational Advisor for Holistic Health and Prevention Programs, expanding the Alliance’s mission to reach new audiences with actionable health insights beyond breast cancer advocacy alone.

Endocrinologist and Prevention Advocate Brings Personal Mission and National Voice to Male Breast Cancer Education

Dr. Mazza’s induction marks a dynamic shift toward integrated care, combining early detection with hormonal health, nutritional science, and longevity strategies. As part of MBCGA’s growing coalition of experts, she will advise educational campaigns addressing the root causes of inflammation, obesity, and hormonal imbalances that are increasingly linked to male breast cancer risk.

Her appointment also carries profound personal meaning. “My father is a male breast cancer survivor,” Dr. Mazza shared. “As a physician, I’m trained to focus on diagnosis and treatment. But watching his journey, I realized how much stigma, silence, and emotional burden men carry—especially when facing something seen as a ‘woman’s disease.’ That has to change.”

According to MBCGA co-founder and president Cheri Ambrose, Dr. Mazza's addition strengthens the Alliance’s mission to support the whole patient. “Angela is not just an extraordinary doctor—she’s a teacher, a healer, and an advocate,” said Ambrose. “Her expertise in hormone health and her compassionate, prevention-based approach is the voice our movement needs right now.”

A Powerful New Direction for the Advisory Board

The MBCGA Medical Advisory Board was established to unite top-tier clinicians, researchers, and advocates from across disciplines to elevate awareness, research, and treatment access for male breast cancer—a disease still largely underrecognized despite its growing impact.

Now entering its eighth year, the Board is undergoing a strategic evolution. Its 2025 direction will embrace an expanded focus on men’s health, early diagnostics, functional medicine, and whole-body wellness. This shift aims to tackle barriers in awareness and care—especially the gender bias that has long silenced men facing breast cancer diagnoses.

Dr. Mazza was nominated by two prominent figures in medical diagnostics and public health advocacy: Dr. Robert L. Bard, internationally renowned cancer imaging specialist and diagnostic pioneer, and Dr. Lennard Goetze, media producer, speaker, and public health strategist. Together, they praised Dr. Mazza’s multidimensional impact as a physician, wellness educator, and community leader. Her appointment reflects the Alliance’s intention to welcome experts who combine medical authority with the power to connect across audiences.

She now joins a distinguished panel that includes leaders in radiology, genomics, surgical oncology, personalized medicine, and integrative care. Her presence on the board signifies a new wave of outreach capacity—designed to engage the public on topics that matter most in disease prevention and early detection.

Championing Prevention: Hormones, Obesity, and Inflammation

Dr. Mazza brings a wealth of clinical insight to MBCGA, including a nuanced understanding of the relationship between hormones and cancer. As an endocrinologist, she sees firsthand how systemic dysfunction contributes to disease—including insulin resistance, low testosterone, and chronic inflammation, particularly in aging male populations and first responders.

“Obesity is a major driver of cancer,” she explained. “Adipose tissue creates an inflammatory environment that fuels tumor growth. And it’s not just about body size—it’s about metabolic health. These are preventable pathways. That’s where our fight should begin.”

She is particularly concerned about underserved and at-risk men—those battling both health inequities and stigma. In her own practice, Dr. Mazza has treated numerous firefighters suffering from thyroid disorders, endocrine disruption, and toxic exposures. She sees her MBCGA role as a call to elevate early detection and education as core strategies of survivorship.

“Longevity is really just prevention with a new name,” she said. “And that means raising awareness before the crisis hits.”

Public Voice, Global Reach

Beyond her clinical practice, Dr. Mazza is a celebrated public speaker, a prolific medical educator, and the founder of HealthSpan Horizons—a health media platform and video production company committed to empowering global audiences with wellness education. Through interviews, virtual events, and high-engagement health segments, she brings medical science to life for both professionals and the public.

Her content spans a wide range of vital topics—from hormone resilience and cancer prevention to regenerative medicine and functional testing. Her commanding media presence and relatable delivery style have made her a trusted voice in national campaigns—and now, a central figure in MBCGA’s expanded mission.

“Dr. Mazza helps us amplify the message that bias and fear should never stop anyone from getting checked,” said Ambrose. “She bridges the gap between science and public understanding—and that’s the power we need to fight stigma and save lives.”

A Personal Story That Fuels Her Mission

Dr. Mazza’s advocacy is deeply personal. Her father, now in recovery, faced the confusion and discomfort common among men diagnosed with breast cancer. “He found a lump and followed through with treatment, including surgery and radiation. But what stuck with me most was how embarrassed he felt—even after surviving. He told me he didn’t want to take his shirt off at the beach anymore.”

Even routine follow-ups like mammograms became emotionally fraught. “One tech told him, ‘At least you’re not a woman—it would’ve been worse.’ Comments like that are harmful,” she said. “It shows how far we still have to go to normalize this disease for men.”

Her father’s experience became a catalyst for Dr. Mazza’s involvement. “I realized I had a platform to do more than treat symptoms. I could use my voice to challenge bias, change attitudes, and empower others—before they become patients.”

About the Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance

The Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance (MBCGA) is the leading international nonprofit organization focused exclusively on supporting men diagnosed with breast cancer and their families. Through advocacy, education, research partnerships, and survivor support, MBCGA aims to erase stigma, ensure equity, and improve outcomes through early detection and inclusive care.

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Monday, June 16, 2025

What does it mean to be part of a MEDICAL ADVISORY BOARD?

 Joining a Medical Advisory Board (MAB) for a nonprofit organization like the Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance (MBCGA) is far more than an honorary position—it is a meaningful commitment to cancer advocacy, clinical excellence, and community impact. It represents the joining of skilled hands and brilliant minds to uplift a shared mission: to end the silence, address the bias, and advance the science around male breast cancer.

The role of an MAB member is multifaceted. These dedicated clinicians, researchers, and health experts become a vital extension of the organization’s purpose, bringing real-time expertise and evidence-based insight to support every facet of the Alliance’s work. From authoring educational content to contributing to public policy conversations, these advisors help ensure the MBCGA remains a trusted and medically credible resource for patients, caregivers, and advocates around the world.

At its core, the advisory board fuels knowledge. Members may collaborate to publish white papers, clinical commentaries, and research summaries. They review and validate health information distributed to the public, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and sensitivity. Their expertise helps to translate complex science into patient-centered resources that foster understanding and action.

Beyond publishing, advisory board members play a key role in collaboration. They serve as sounding boards for new programs and campaigns, providing clinical oversight to public health initiatives. Whether it's reviewing screening recommendations for high-risk men or participating in early detection campaigns, their guidance is instrumental in shaping the Alliance’s efforts and effectiveness.

Importantly, these professionals lend their voices in public forums. Advisory board members often serve as guest speakers for national seminars, media events, and webinars, offering powerful insights that bridge research and reality. By sharing clinical experiences and the latest updates in diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship, they amplify awareness and encourage informed decisions.

But being on a medical advisory board also comes with a deeper human responsibility. MBCGA is not just an advocacy group—it’s a growing family of survivors, caregivers, researchers, and clinicians bound together by compassion and a commitment to equity. Advisory board members provide reassurance, clarity, and hope to a community that too often feels overlooked in the breast cancer landscape. They serve as educators, but also as advocates—using their credentials to shine a light on the disparities and stigmas that keep men from getting the care they deserve.

Together, the MAB and MBCGA leadership work in synergy to build a living resource—a place where patients and their families can find expert guidance, clinical direction, and compassionate support. Every contribution—whether it's reviewing a medical blog, joining a research panel, or advising on screening protocols—ripples outward to affect lives directly.

In cancer advocacy, the clinical voice is vital. It elevates the mission from awareness to action. To join a medical advisory board like that of the Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance is to step into a legacy of leadership. It is to stand for evidence-based change, to guide a movement with integrity, and to make a lasting difference in how the world sees—and treats—male breast cancer.

For clinicians and researchers who believe in the power of purpose, this is more than a board—it’s a call to serve.

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Monday, June 16, 2025

A Physician’s Mission to Expose, Detect, and Defend Against an Overlooked Crisis

By Robert L. Bard, MD - Diagnostic Imaging Specialist | Cancer Research Advocate

Introduction: Breaking the Silence on a Misunderstood Threat - The mention of “breast cancer” typically conjures an image of a woman—an understandable reaction shaped by decades of awareness campaigns and pink-ribbon advocacy. But breast cancer is not exclusive to women. It happens in men too, and more often than many realize. The most dangerous part? Most male patients—and their doctors—don’t see it coming.

As a cancer imaging specialist, I’ve spent decades on the frontlines of early detection. What alarms me isn’t just the number of male breast cancer (MBC) cases I’ve encountered, but how easily they are missed, misdiagnosed, or outright ignored. That’s not due to biology—it’s due to bias and a critical lack of data. As I often say, “It’s only rare because of the lack of data.” That absence of awareness is costing lives, and it’s time we change that.

What Is Male Breast Cancer—and Why Aren’t We Talking About It? - Male breast cancer occurs when malignant cells form in the tissues of the male breast—yes, men do have breast tissue. While it accounts for less than 1% of all breast cancer diagnoses, its mortality rate is disproportionately high because most cases are discovered late. Symptoms often go unreported, overlooked, or dismissed until the disease has progressed.

Historical Blind Spots and Gender Bias - For decades, male breast cancer has fallen through the cracks of public health research and screening guidelines. With studies historically focused on women, male-specific risks and diagnostic patterns remain poorly understood. This has led to a deep-rooted and dangerous misconception: that breast cancer is solely a “woman’s disease.” But cancer is biologically indifferent—it targets tissue, not gender identity.

Global Perspective and Growing Numbers - International data reveals a slow but steady rise in male breast cancer cases. However, due to inconsistent reporting and the lack of routine male screening, the true global burden is underestimated. These silent statistics underscore the urgent need for universal awareness and inclusive diagnostic strategies—ones that are not restricted by borders, or by bias.

A New Era of Imaging: Changing the Narrative with Technology - Advanced imaging is one of the most powerful tools in reversing the tide of male breast cancer. As a pioneer in diagnostic ultrasound, I’ve seen firsthand how high-resolution, non-invasive scans can detect abnormalities long before they become life-threatening.

Technologies like thermal imaging, B-mode ultrasound, Doppler scanning, and elastography have all enhanced our ability to visualize tumors and vascular patterns in male breast tissue. These tools are not only faster and safer than traditional biopsies—they offer real-time insights that enable early, decisive action.

By adopting proactive imaging protocols for men—especially those with family history, hormone imbalances, or unexplained chest masses—we can shift the paradigm from reactive diagnosis to proactive health preservation.

What Makes MBC Different in Men? - Unlike women, men are not typically screened for breast cancer. With less breast tissue, tumors are often closer to the chest wall, increasing the risk of deeper invasion. Compounding this is the fact that men tend to delay seeking medical attention—often due to embarrassment, misperceptions, or a lack of awareness.

Hormonal differences also play a crucial role. While estrogen is a known factor in breast cancer development, we’re witnessing a disturbing rise in testosterone-related complications. In collaboration with endocrinologist Dr. Angela Mazza, I’ve explored mounting evidence linking hormone modulation—particularly synthetic testosterone used in bodybuilding—to elevated cancer risk.

When men self-medicate with anabolic steroids, they disrupt their endocrine balance. This may trigger estrogenic pathways or inflammatory processes that promote breast tissue proliferation and tumor formation. Moreover, thyroid dysfunction—often unexamined in this context—can exacerbate these hormonal imbalances and should be a standard part of any risk assessment.

The Mission of the Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance - The Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance (MBCGA) exists to rewrite the narrative around MBC. As one of its active supporters, I see our work as far more than advocacy—it’s a movement. MBCGA champions data collection, patient support, and clinical innovation through global partnerships and multidisciplinary collaboration.

Together, we are establishing new standards: hormonal screening for at-risk men, comprehensive imaging protocols, and public education initiatives tailored to male populations. This alliance is helping fill the massive void left by decades of gendered oversight in cancer care. As I’ve often told my colleagues and patients alike, “It’s not just about detecting disease—it’s about protecting lives through education, partnership, and persistence.”

Need for Improved Programming - The lack of research, data, and early screening programs for male breast cancer is not just an academic oversight—it’s a public health emergency. My diagnostic practice now includes initiatives that specifically target this gap. I’ve established national and international programs to raise awareness, expand imaging access, and build registries that give researchers the tools they need. Every patient missed is a life potentially lost. We must build data. We must build awareness. We must build systems that include everyone at risk.

 

Conclusion: Let’s Redefine the Norms—Before More Lives Are Lost:  We are living in an era of unparalleled medical tools—precision diagnostics, advanced imaging, integrative endocrinology. There is no longer an excuse for ignorance. Male breast cancer isn’t a statistical outlier—it’s a dangerously underestimated reality that has lived too long in the shadows.

If we are to save lives, we must update our clinical radar, erase the gender bias in our protocols, and embrace technological innovation as our first line of defense. Breast cancer advocacy must evolve from being color-coded and gendered to truly inclusive. 

Because cancer doesn’t discriminate—and neither should we.

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SPOTLIGHT: THE BATTLE IS ON

The MBCGA honors David Engle. It's been a unique and rewarding journey to meet and document the countless stories of those afflicted with Male Breast Cancer. In our website, we bring you the many unsung advocates that offer their compelling experience with the hopes of saving others. 

"I was 70 years old when I was diagnosed. My double mastectomy was deemed a success with clear surgical margins and minimal lymphatic involvement. I did not require radiation therapy or chemotherapy subsequent to my surgery. I will be taking tamoxifen for up to 5 years as a precautionary measure against recurrence. So far, I’ve managed the side effects of this drug without too much difficulty." - Check out his complete story @ https://mbcglobalalliance.org/stories/david-engle/

ALSO, JOIN OUR ONLINE MBC GLOBAL ALLIANCE GROUP ON LINKEDIN @: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/8877080/

“DROP THE BIAS” is the campaign and battle cry of the Male Breast Cancer Global Alliance—a bold call to end the harmful misconception that breast cancer is a “women-only” disease. This bias in medicine, media, and society creates dangerous blind spots in care, leaving men misdiagnosed, undertreated, or ignored. It limits access to screening, support, and survivor recognition. But bias also lives within—men often avoid seeking help out of fear, stigma, or shame. “DROP THE BIAS” confronts this cultural and clinical oversight head-on, urging the world to recognize that men get breast cancer too. The campaign is not just about awareness—it’s about action. By challenging outdated assumptions, educating providers, empowering survivors, and opening dialogue, the Alliance aims to rewrite the narrative and save lives. “DROP THE BIAS” is a mission, a movement, and a message to all: equity in cancer care starts with truth.

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